Big tool, small shop

So, my step-father recently gave me a Jet 22-44 drum sander. I was happy to say the least. He’s had it a couple of years, but could never get it to sand level and I think he just got frustrated – so now its in my shop! That’s the “problem” though, my shop is a bit small for a 22-44 drum sander, but I am not crazy enough to turn it down!

Hopefully, I can get it tracking properly and find somewhere to put it! If anyone has any ideas on either topic, let me know!

Very nice looking machine, it looks like it only is supported on one side of the roller, although thesupport leg looks fairly heavy, and this design would let you sand a wider board, I think that mightbe the problem. If you send it to me, I will try to correct the problem and will have my heirs returnit to you, LOL. Seriously, let us know if you find the problem, someone here might be able to help,or will need help on this problem later.

what a fantastic present….I paid about $1600 for mine and am glad I have it.

I have thar same jet 22-44 drum sander and it is great…an invaluable tool. Keep it, you will glad you did.Adjusting it to sand even is easy. Loosen the adjusting bolts and remove the sandpaper. Take 2 pieces if material that are the same thickness and place one at each end of the drum. When the drum rests on both peieces carefully tighten the adjusting bolts while pressing down on the drum to make sure it doesn’t move during tightening.The drums occasionally need adjusting and this method has worked perfect for me. After adjusting I sand a wide board and measure with my dial calipers…and it is normally dead on.

Also, buy your sandpaper by the larger rolls and cut it yourself because it is much cheaper. I buy mine from Industrial Abrasives.com and have saved alot.

Another thought…do not sand woods with a lot of oil or resin in them (cocobolo, bloodwood etc) as they will gum up and ruin your sanding paper real fast..

@dbhost – Yeah, the timing of this gift of course wasn’t perfect. I’m in the process of building shop organization and right now, everything is everywhere. “Once I get that done, I can put that away, and once I get that done, I can put that away”...and round and round I go. I only get an hour here and there, so it will take some time to get things organized, but I can’t wait. I’m just trying to remember that the journey is part of the fun.

Apply to the wife for a “SEA” permit! Once approved, the Shop Expansion Area (SEA) will solve all of your space problems. In the meantime, ship the sander to me, I’ll send it back to you from my deathbed, thereby saving you that nasty probate wait that Bluepine is offering! :)